Woman and the River

So many voices are being heard on the concept of female empowerment, a subject we Gnar Fairies hold close to our hearts and mission. Unfortunately, the sad truth is that we are still outnumbered in the arena of the great outdoors. So few women choose to fully immerse themselves in the wild ways of nature and learn from what this earth may teach us. We are rarely encouraged by men and even our own sex to pursue this lifestyle and chase our fears down the river. Many ask why this point of empowerment is such a big deal, and the reason is because people are still asking that question.
As women, we face several challenges that stunt our growth as individuals. Even statistics show that as girls hit adolescence their physical activity drops due to becoming more self-conscious of their bodies. This trend continues throughout their lifetimes as long as they are given no guidance or outlets to build on confidence. I was lucky enough to have parents that supported my love for nature and heavily established gender equality between my brother and I. The real world doesn't work that way though. Many go without that kind of upbringing or encouragement and, thus, sexism and oppression remain evident in our society as well as the outdoor community.
We see men and even some women continue to hold the standards that limit the female psyche to what we think others believe us capable. Instead of breaking down barriers, we find ourselves maintaining them by accepting the constraints set upon us due to our gender. I, myself, have run into young male paddlers that have held me back despite my progression in the sport. They would tell me I wasn't ready or they didn't think I had the mentality for more than Class III. To female paddlers who have encountered similar circumstances, my advice is to find new friends. There are so many others out there willing to teach you and allow you to thrive in the environment you love.
We women can be those who influence others and create a safe, non-judgmental   atmosphere for girls to prosper. Female paddlers need to continue to grow as a community and inspire one another instead of hindering our potential. Let us get the adolescent youth involved and show them that they are not alone in this fight for confidence and independence. Even as our numbers continue to grow out there, feed the momentum with leadership and vision.
Do what the river teaches us, to conquer fears and strive for the gnarly. Let the force of the current reflect our strength and power with every stroke. For on the water, there is no distinction. We are all equal in the river's might.

Gnar-Lee

Photo by Tallulah Fest 

Lee (left) and Kim Zamora (right)